If you’re looking for reliable and high-quality fastenings, stainless metric is an excellent choice. Stainless metric fastenings are made of stainless steel, a corrosion-resistant alloy that is well-suited for a wide range of applications. Stainless steel is a popular material for fastenings because of its strength, durability, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
At Fastening Specialists, we’ve been providing fastenings to a variety of industries for over 65 years. As a trusted wholesale distributor, we specialize in providing high-quality fastenings that meet the needs of our customers. Whether you need stainless metric fastenings for a specific application or you’re looking for a reliable supplier for all your fastening needs, we’ve got you covered. With our extensive selection of products and our knowledgeable staff, we can help you find the right fastenings for your needs.
Understanding Stainless Metric Composition
Stainless metric fasteners are made from various grades of stainless steel that have different compositions. Understanding the composition of these grades is important to ensure that the fasteners are suitable for the intended application.
Grade Classification
Stainless metric fasteners are classified into different grades based on their composition. The most commonly used grades are 304 and 316, which are austenitic stainless steels. These grades are known for their excellent corrosion resistance and are suitable for use in harsh environments.
Other grades of stainless metric fasteners include 409, 420, and 430, which are ferritic stainless steels. These grades are known for their high resistance to corrosion and are often used in applications where high temperatures are involved.
Elemental Breakdown
Stainless metric fasteners are made up of various elements that contribute to their properties. The main elements that make up stainless steel are carbon (C), silicon (Si), manganese (Mn), phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and copper (Cu).
Carbon is added to stainless steel to improve its strength, while silicon is added to improve its resistance to oxidation. Manganese is added to improve the strength and ductility of stainless steel, while phosphorus and sulfur are added to improve its machinability.
Nickel is added to stainless steel to improve its corrosion resistance, while chromium is added to increase its resistance to oxidation and corrosion. Molybdenum is added to improve the corrosion resistance of stainless steel in acidic environments, while copper is added to improve its resistance to corrosion in seawater.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
When it comes to selecting fasteners, understanding the physical and mechanical properties of the materials is crucial. Stainless metric fasteners are known for their excellent strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
Tensile Strength and Durability
Stainless metric fasteners have high tensile strength, which makes them ideal for applications that require a strong and durable connection. The tensile strength of stainless metric fasteners varies depending on the grade of stainless steel used. For example, AISI 304 stainless steel has a tensile strength of up to 620 MPa, while AISI 316 stainless steel has a tensile strength of up to 580 MPa.
In addition to their high tensile strength, stainless metric fasteners are also highly durable. They are capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, making them suitable for use in harsh environments. Moreover, stainless metric fasteners are resistant to corrosion, which is a common problem with other types of fasteners.
Corrosion Resistance
One of the key advantages of stainless metric fasteners is their corrosion resistance. Stainless steel contains chromium, which reacts with oxygen to form a protective layer of chromium oxide on the surface of the material. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching the underlying metal and causing corrosion.
Stainless metric fasteners are an excellent choice for applications that require resistance to corrosive environments, such as marine applications. They are also ideal for use in food processing, chemical processing, and medical applications.
Stainless Metric Form and Function
When it comes to fastenings, the form and function are crucial. Stainless metric fasteners are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. They are commonly used in various applications, including automotive, aerospace, marine, and construction industries. In this section, we will discuss the standard metric sizes and OD, as well as application-specific fittings.
Standard Metric Sizes and OD
Stainless metric fasteners come in a wide range of sizes and OD. The most common sizes are M6, M8, M10, M12, and M16. The OD (Outside Diameter) of the fasteners varies depending on the size. For example, the OD of an M6 bolt is 10mm, while the OD of an M16 bolt is 24mm. It is important to choose the right size and OD for your application to ensure a secure and safe connection.
Application Specific Fittings
Stainless metric fasteners are available in various fittings, including bolts, nuts, screws, washers, and threaded rods. Each fitting serves a specific purpose, and it is important to choose the right fitting for your application. For example, bolts are used to join two or more objects together, while nuts are used to secure the bolt in place. Screws are used to fasten objects to a surface, while washers are used to distribute the load and prevent damage to the surface.
Industry-Specific Applications
Stainless steel is a versatile material that finds its way into many different industries. Its durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal make it an ideal choice for various applications. In this section, we will explore some of the industry-specific applications of stainless steel.
Construction and Architecture
Stainless steel is a popular material in the construction and architecture industry due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance requirements. It is commonly used in the construction of bridges, buildings, and other structures that require high strength and durability. Stainless steel is also used in architectural applications such as cladding, roofing, and handrails due to its aesthetic appeal and resistance to weathering.
Automotive and Aerospace
Stainless steel is also widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance. In these industries, stainless steel is used to make components such as exhaust systems, engine parts, and body panels. It is also used in aerospace applications such as jet engine components and structural parts.
Maintenance and Care for Stainless Metrics
Stainless steel is a versatile and durable material that offers excellent resistance to corrosion and staining. However, it is not completely maintenance-free and requires proper care to maintain its appearance and performance over time.
Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your stainless metric fastenings:
- Clean regularly: Stainless steel should be cleaned regularly to remove surface deposits that can cause staining and corrosion. Use a mild detergent or soap and warm water to clean the surface, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface.
- Avoid contact with other metals: Stainless steel should be kept away from contact with other metals, especially those that are less noble, to avoid galvanic corrosion. This can occur when two dissimilar metals are in contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte, such as saltwater or acidic solutions.
- Protect from physical damage: Stainless steel can be scratched or dented if it comes into contact with hard or sharp objects. Avoid dragging or dropping stainless steel fastenings, and use protective covers or padding when transporting or storing them.
The team at fastening specialists provides advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.